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Insights Secure 2015 Compilations: General Studies - 2

Insights Secure 2015


General Studies Paper 2

5th January 2015 to 9th January 2015

[THE UNDERCOVER GROUP]


Compiled By:
Urstruly KArtheek
Deepak Thurwal
Anand Singh
Hatas Engineer
Devil Baba
LuV

Source:
http://www.insightsonindia.com

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Table of Contents
General Studies 2............................................................................................. 4
Topic: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues
arising out of their design and implementation. ................................................................................. 4
Q) Women, Dalits and tribals, who are at the bottom of the pile, are said to be the most
affected because of the ordinance that requires passing class 8 and 10 as eligibility
criteria for standing for elections at panchayat level. Critically examine why. (200
Words) ........................................................................................................................................... 4

Topic: devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein (also Paper 3:
Infrastructure) .................................................................................................................................... 5
Q) What are municipal bonds? Recently government initiated a process to identify few
cities to issue such bonds. Examine why and how these bonds will be issued. (150
Words) ........................................................................................................................................... 5
Topic: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on Indias interests ..... 6
Q) Analyse the impact of falling global oil prices on India. (200 Words) ............................ 6
Topic: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the
performance of these schemes; ............................................................................................................. 8
Q) In India though unorganized workers make up the bulk of working population they
are kept out of many of government benefits. In this light, examine what measures have
been taken by the governments at state and centre to address the problems faced by this
section of population. (200 Words) ............................................................................................ 8
Topic: Parliament and State Legislatures functioning ................................................................ 10
Q) The procedure of the promulgation of ordinances is inherently undemocratic.
Whether an ordinance is justifiable or not, the issue of a large number of ordinances has,
psychologically, a bad effect. Critically comment with suitable examples. (200 Words)
...................................................................................................................................................... 10
Topic: Development processes and the development industry- the role of NGOs ........................... 11
Q) Do you think the activities of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in India
should be regulated by an independent regulatory body? Critically discuss the various
issues related to accountability of NGOs and governments role in ensuring the same.
(200 Words) ................................................................................................................................. 11
Topic: India and its neighborhood-: Also related to Paper 3: Indian Economy and issues relating
to planning, ....................................................................................................................................... 12
Q) The average Indian was slightly better off than the average Chinese in the initial
years after Indian independence. Critically analyse how and why China developed
faster than India to become worlds second largest economy in the world. (200 Words)
...................................................................................................................................................... 12

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Topic: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health
.......................................................................................................................................................... 13
Q) Considering the myriad glitches faced by the rights to food, education and
employment, do you think is it a right move to enact right to health as envisaged under
draft National Health Policy 2015? In your opinion, what should be governments
utmost priority when it comes to managing the health-care sector in the country?
Justify. (200 Words).................................................................................................................... 13
Topic: India and its neighborhood- relations. .................................................................................. 15
Q) At the heart of the ongoing political crisis in Bangladesh are the unsettled questions
from Bangladeshs violent birth in 1971. Critically comment. (200 Words) .................... 15
Topic: India and its neighborhood- relations. .................................................................................. 16
Q) Critically analyse the changing role of Saudi Arabia in the Middle East post Arab
Spring, post the surge of the Islamic State and dipping crude oil prices across the globe.
Also examine how has Indias engagement with Saudi Arabia has evolved in past few
years post above mentioned developments. (200 Words).................................................... 16
Topic: Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolution ................................................... 17
Q) Examine what historical forces shaped the vision of the Indian Constitution. (200
Words) ......................................................................................................................................... 17

Topic: Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining
to the federal structure ...................................................................................................................... 18
Q) During the framing of Indian constitution, what were the arguments in favour of
greater power to the provinces? Examine. (150 Words) ....................................................... 18
Topic: Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability ..................................... 19
Q) India must have a system that introduces accountability and allows the public to
evaluate the claims of good governance on the basis of evidence and not mere rhetoric.
Examine the possibility, need and challenges in introducing an index similar to human
development index (HDI) to measure governance in India.(200 Words) .......................... 19
Topic: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health;
can be linked to Paper-3 topic Government Budgeting ................................................................. 20
Q) Just like separate railway budget, there is a dire need for a separate health budget.
Critically comment. (200 Words) ............................................................................................. 20
Topic: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on Indias interests,
Indian diaspora. ................................................................................................................................ 21
Q) With suitable examples analyse how the presence of large Indian diaspora and
shared colonial past have been instrumental in forging good relationship between India
and few countries spread across the world. (200 Words) .................................................... 21
Topic: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating
to Education ...................................................................................................................................... 22
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Q) The key problems confronting higher education in India are quality, equity, access
and financing. In the light of many problems being faced by Indias premier
educational and research institutions, critically analyse the statement. (200 Words)...... 22
Topic: India and its neighborhood- relations. .................................................................................. 23
Q) Compare and contrast with suitable examples how some of Indias neighbours
across its western border have become the victims of their own religious and security
policies in recent times. (200 Words) ....................................................................................... 23
Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting
Indias interests................................................................................................................................. 24
Q) Critically discuss challenges faced by India and USA in tackling terrorism and
examine agreements signed or arrangements made between the two to tackle the same.
(200 Words) ................................................................................................................................. 24
Topic: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate. ............ 27
Q) Examine how will India benefit if the UN Security Council is reformed. (150 Words)
...................................................................................................................................................... 27

General Studies 2
Topic: Government policies and interventions for development in various
sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.
Q) Women, Dalits and tribals, who are at the bottom of the pile, are said to be the most
affected because of the ordinance that requires passing class 8 and 10 as eligibility criteria
for standing for elections at panchayat level. Critically examine why. (200 Words)

The Hindu
Ans:
Recently the Government of Rajasthan has passed an ordinance which makes it
mandatory to pass class 8 and 10 exams to contest elections for the posts of Sarpanch
and Panchayat Samiti member respectively. The move is criticized on various fronts
to be exclusionary and undemocratic. However, it bears the most severe
consequences on Women, Dalits and Tribals, for the following reasons:
1. Historic disadvantage:
Due to the historic oppression that these sections face, their access to education has
been low and thus owing to the social construct of the country and not personal
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choice, even well-intending hardworking candidates will be excluded. Further, lack
of representation in the given bodies will only deepen the existing disparity and the
cycle becomes unbreakable.
2. Political Disadvantage:
Given the patriarchal and class-dominated structure of the Indian Society, women
and scheduled categories have an inherent disadvantage in contesting elections. The
education requirements, which reduce their presence in the elections, will further
make them a political minority too.
3. Psychological Oppression:
Since these sections have historically been exploited, a move like this takes away the
few areas of encouragement and inspiration that help in the bottom-up
empowerment of these people
While education is undoubtedly important, especially for the representatives of the
people, it can become a screening criterion only when everyone in the society has
equal access to it. In the absence of it, imposing an education qualification will only
mean to punish the capable leaders of the weaker sections for a mistake they have
not committed.

Topic: devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges


therein (also Paper 3: Infrastructure)
Q) What are municipal bonds? Recently government initiated a process to identify few
cities to issue such bonds. Examine why and how these bonds will be issued. (150 Words)

Business Standard
Ans:
Municipal Bonds, also known as Munis, are tax saving investments offered by the
municipal bodies to raise funds from the community for local area development. In
view of the plan towards Smart Cities, the Government of India has proposed to use
Munis in a few select cities in view of the following benefits it yields:
1. They help in saving tax for the individual, hence increased participation
2. Since the money invested is being used in the development of the local area, the
direct impact can be felt by the investors and hence greater accountability
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3. It balances authority and responsibility at the community level, thus making the
process of development more effective and inclusive
4. Viable alternative source of funding, given the central funds are already under
pressure with Make in India
Municipal Bonds are being planned to be issued in the following manner:
1. Select five to six Tier II and Tier III cities, including smaller capitals and satellite
towns, to issue munis
2. Issue a fixed number of bonds to the people of the given municipality (75% of the
population), for a fixed period (3 years) and at a fixed rate of interest (8%). The
people would be decided on first come first serve basis.
3. The issuing authority must fund a minimum of 20% of the Project Cost from the
munis, and in case is unable to reach minimum subscription, must refund to the
applicants within 12 days
4. Depending on the success of Munis in the first phase, the option will be extend to
other towns as well. Some of the constraints that Munis might face in the first phase
are:
a. Better alternative available for people with higher rate on interest
b. Absentia of Municipal Bodies causing lack of trust in them by people
c. Techno-managerial capacity of the municipal bodies
If Municipal Bonds are able to perform as expected, they will display an
extraordinary route of development
investment in India at the community level. The democracy would truly be
functioning BY the people and FOR the people.

Topic: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries


on Indias interests
Q) Analyse the impact of falling global oil prices on India. (200 Words)

The Indian Express


Ans:
Crude oil is more than a dark syrupy liquid which fuels engine and turbine. It is the
raw material for many PSUs, plastic, fertilizer industries. The tumbling price of
crude oil since last 2 years has brought hopes and concerns for India. Its impact has
already started making marks.

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Some of the positive impacts are:
1. With low petroleum prices, there will be indirect boost in automobile sector and
hence manufacturing sector and employment.
2. As 80% of Crude oil is imported in India, lowered price will lead to lesser
outgoing payment and hence shrinking CAD and fiscal deficit which is sign of
healthy economics.
3. India can look for Oil based power plant for short term in North east where power
is major issue till the time the Hydel project is not setup there.
4. With cut in transportation price, food inflations has already gone down.
5. Oil companies like ONGC and IOCL can save money for future innovation,
infrastructure building and making it strong.
6. Govt will have surplus amount for welfare schemes
7. Govt can completely rely on import of crude oil and save domestic rigs for future
and improving refineries technologies which are not to the match of latest US
efficient refineries machineries.
8. Plastic and Fertilizer industry who depends on oil price will see progress and
hence sbusidy expenditure of govt on fertiliser will be lowered.
9. Diesel and Petroleum subsidy which account for 0.3% of GDP and Fertiliser
subsidy is for 0.1% GDP, it means we can gain on some part of 0.4% subsidy with
lowered oil price.
10. With low oil price Fracking technology of US will not be remunerative and hence
the Guar Gum which India used to export will be stopped affecting new found
income prospect to many rural farmers will be snatched away.

Negative impacts are:


1. More pollutions due to combustion engine which will lead to Global warming.
2. Lesser innovation toward improving energy efficiency of vehicles globally.
3. Global decline of economy dependent on oil export may lead to another
dangerous recession and will affect Indias economy.

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4. Indias neighbour consists of OPEC countries and Indias export depends on
healthy economics of this country.
5. More lowering of oil may lead to destructive competition of oil selling among
OPEC countries which will be a vicious cycle of downfall and hence affect India
economy.
6. Depreciating currency of Russian and OPEC countries because of oil price leads to
indirect rise of Dollars, it will also indirectly depreciate Rupees.
7. Oil diplomacy with Vietnam in South China sea will weaken as low oil price is
demotivating factor to explore by ONGC Videsh Limited.
Falling oil price is good for all, but there will be long term effect if it will not be
controlled soon, it will lead to economic ruin of many countries and invite major
recession arising from middle east. India being engaging more and more
internationally will be affected and its ambitious economy will be hurt with
recession hit.

Topic: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the


Centre and States and the performance of these schemes;
Q) In India though unorganized workers make up the bulk of working population they
are kept out of many of government benefits. In this light, examine what measures have
been taken by the governments at state and centre to address the problems faced by this
section of population. (200 Words)

The Hindu
Ans:
The unorganized sector forms more than 80% of the employed workforce in the
country and contributes more than 50% of the National GDP. However, this sector
often does not get the benefits of statutory provisions and welfare measures like
pension, minimum wages, maternity benefits, safety standards at workplace etc. By
extending the state services to them, not will their individual rights as citizens of
India be upheld but also the overall productivity be enhances and their contribution
to the GDP would attain its potential.
In light of the above, the Government has taken the following measures to address
the problems of this sector, both at Central and State levels:
Central:
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1. Aadhar, to give a recognized identity to all people so that they can avail the
benefits from state for which they are eligible. Most beneficiaries of this scheme
come from the informal sector. Recent proposals are now coming from states to link
Aadhar to various smart cards and other services to have a target delivery of benefits
towards the workers of the unorganized sector
2. Unorganized Workers Social Security Act 2008, that constituted Nation Social
Security Board which focuses on the social security schemes for the workers such as
health, maternity, education for their children, etc.
3. Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana for BPL families in unorganized sector, giving
insurance upto Rs 30,000 per family per annum
4. Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme, providing a pension of Rs
200/month to all above 60
years of age
5. Building and Other Construction Workers (RECS) Act, 1996 having a provision for
financial assistance towards the workers
6. Street Vendors Act 2014, extending state services to the street vendors who
constitute the largest section of the unorganized sector
7. Aam Admi Bima Yojana for landless agricultural labourers
State:
1. Gujrat, leading in the measures taken towards workers, has to its credit
Shramyogi Kalayn Mela , Shramyogi Suvidha Web Portal and helpline and the UWin card which incorporates all the welfare
schemes for labourers.
2. Maharashtra Kerala and Andhra Pradesh have launched various schemes for
housing, education, health, pension, etc
Despite such measures, there is little improvement in the state of the workers in the
unorganized sector. India is continues to be plagued with many issues in labour
sector and demands revolutionary reforms, recent initiatives to issue the smart cards
under UWSS act, 2008 is a good step but many initiatives need to follow to
channelize the benefits to these large vulnerable sector of our country especially in
northern undeveloped states like UP, Bihar.

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Topic: Parliament and State Legislatures functioning
Q) The procedure of the promulgation of ordinances is inherently undemocratic.
Whether an ordinance is justifiable or not, the issue of a large number of ordinances has,
psychologically, a bad effect. Critically comment with suitable examples. (200 Words)

The Indian Express


Ans:
Article 123 of the Constitution has empowered the President to promulgate
directives if the Parliament is not in session and they carry the full force of the law.
However, most other democratic countries have not placed such powers upon the
executive. Provisions for passing ordinances are widely considered as remnants of
our colonial legacy and the GoI Act, 1935.
Ordinances were envisaged to be promulgated when a situation of emergency
would arise and the deliberations on the issue by the Parliament would not be
possible. On many occasions such ordinances have played a positive role. The
governments attempt to demonetize large rupee denominations in 1978 to prevent
illicit money transfers, the creation of the TRAI in 1997 to raise private investors
confidence in the ongoing process of liberalization and the recent ordinance to
amend the Land Acquisition Act to kick-start stalled projects are cases in point.
However, ordinances have generally been based on political consideration rather
than on principles of good governance. The promulgation of the SARFAESI
Ordinance in 2002, when the bill was being deliberated by the concerned Standing
Committee, the promulgation of the Electricity Regulatory Commissions Ordinance
in 1998, one day before the government had agreed to convene, and the previous
governments ordinance to shield convicted legislators are all instances when the
Executive's unilateralism sent a wrong message about the country's democratic
bearings.
The Executive has been given wide-ranging powers such as the power to declare an
emergency, setting up of important administrative authorities (e.g. PFRDA, UIDAI)
etc. without Parliamentary Approval. Restraining the ordinance-making power to
prevent further concentration of power by the Executive is the need of the hour.

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Topic: Development processes and the development industry- the role of


NGOs
Q) Do you think the activities of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in India
should be regulated by an independent regulatory body? Critically discuss the various
issues related to accountability of NGOs and governments role in ensuring the same.
(200 Words)

The Hindu
Ans:
NGOs are playing a major role in the welfare and development of the society
throughout India. These are working independently without profit after getting
registered with government.
Current measures of regulation:
1. Renewal of registration under society registration act every 5 years.
2. Annual submission of income and expenditure.
3. Foreign contribution regulation act under ministry of home affairs for regulation
of foreign fund.
4. State NGO acts.
Concerns:
1. Only about 10% of the over 22 lakh NGOs filed their annual income.
2. IB report about interference of foreign agencies in India through NGOs.
3. Some states lack NGO acts.
4. Large number over 22 lakh.
5. Rise of fake NGOs.
6. Misappropriation of funds.
Considering the above factors a central and state regulatory body for NGOs is a
necessity.

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NGOs must ensure their accountability to governments by submitting Annual
reports, income and expenditure statements and working towards national
development on national interest. Some recent issues like foreign funding of Maoist
groups, separatist forces, green peace foundation, kudankulam protests, anna hazare
movement raised questions about NGOs objectives.
What government can do?
1. Strengthening the implementation of regulatory measures-annual reports, budget.
2. Establishing regulatory bodies.
3. Punishment measures-cancelling grants, revoking accreditations etc.
4. Surveillance through various agencies.
NGOs are an inevitable part of a country. Its the responsibility of the government to
regulate and shaping them as a tool of development.

Topic: India and its neighborhood-: Also related to Paper 3: Indian


Economy and issues relating to planning,
Q) The average Indian was slightly better off than the average Chinese in the initial years
after Indian independence. Critically analyse how and why China developed faster than
India to become worlds second largest economy in the world. (200 Words)

The Hindu
Ans:
1978 was the defining year for the Chinese as well as for the world, for it witnessed
spectacular development from the Chinese side lifting millions of them out of
poverty. Indian and Chinese economic levels has moved side by side from millenias,
however lax polity and problems of democratic setup has widened the gap between
India and china.
Reasons for china's boom
-determined political party to revive the Chinese glory
-connecting economic growth nationalism
-ushering reforms in piecemeal manner from 1978, under deng xiaoping
-selective picking of strategic locations for SEZs that boomed the export put of china
-agricultural reforms in a defined manner and land allocated to most
-liberalised FDI in various sectors step by step that flooded the capital money
-these international firms created huge employment, specially the labour intensive
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one that kept the unemployment levels low.
-strategic use of exchange rate to continually boom the export
-once the surplus were excessive, technological indigenisation took place
-adequate attention to people's well being with decent investment in education
health and basic public service delivery
India's approach and hidden weaknesses vis-a-vis china
-late to usher reforms by 13 years
-less attention to manufacturing proved costly in future in the form of jobless growth
-low investment in primary education and health meant low living standards devoid
of empowerment and capabilities
-relying on trickledown effect that only bred high inequality across the geography
and people
-democratic repulsion to reforms, inherent weakness to fast changes
-unwilling and uncourageous polity
-phobia towards any kind of FDI brought this very late
-arbitrary allocation of Chinese emulation of SEZs rendered it unproductive
-indigenisation remained low due inherent weaknesses and international politics
-no attention to skilling
-labour intensive industries remained backwards resulting in huge pressures in
agriculture which further resulted in disguised unemployment productivity
remaining the same
Chinese have zoomed further ahead once it entered in the WTO. Now its economy
stands about 5 times India's. However the rights of citizens are highly curbed and
state's conduct is not transparent when compared to that of India. Indian citizen is
free and is given various rights in the constitution itself. In order to catch up, global
practices needs to be adopted with changes according to the localised conditions, we
call it 'glocalisation'.
General Studies 2

Topic: Issues relating to development and management of Social


Sector/Services relating to Health
Q) Considering the myriad glitches faced by the rights to food, education and
employment, do you think is it a right move to enact right to health as envisaged under
draft National Health Policy 2015? In your opinion, what should be governments
utmost priority when it comes to managing the health-care sector in the country? Justify.
(200 Words)

Business Standard
Ans:

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Assuring a service as a fundamental right, like Education, Food and Employment in
the recent years, has not translated into an effective delivery of these services to all
people in the country. Vast portions of the population continue to be uneducated,
malnourished and unemployed.
Reasons for failure of these fundamental rights range from uncoordinated policy to
market-unsuitable mechanisms and tools, added with bureaucratic and corruption
errors.
However, making these basic services as fundamental rights has undoubtedly
achieved the following:
1. Given a psychological courage and voice to people to demand these services from
their representatives, and in absence of it hold them legally accountable
2. Encouraged private sector and international organisations to focus on these
sectors
3. Given the civil society a definite base to operate from and protect exploitation of
people
4. Increased Government expenditure
In light of both the drawbacks and merits above, it is welcome step to declare Health
as a fundamental right. To realise that this step translates into better health facilities
for an average Indian, the Government needs to focus on the following:
1. Quality of services
This can be achieved with technology partnerships with private and international
organisations, incentives for the healthcare professionals at all levels and by
encouraging innovation in the healthcare sector.
2. Access of services
Easy access to services is a combination of low cost of services, increased number of
healthcare centres and of frugal innovations suited for the local Indian needs. Care,
however, must be taken than in an intent to deliver easy and low cost medication,
there must not be drug misuse.
3. Recognition of complimentary factors
Factors that have a direct bearing on the health of an individual, like sanitation
facilities, nutrition level, clean environment, awareness, residential conditions, etc
must be taken due cognizance of. This also implies enhancing the scope of what is
understood by primary healthcare facilities.
Similarly, at a policy and administrative level, factors like inter-department
coordination, redressal mechanism for citizens, portability of services, etc must be
look at with equal focus to achieve the goal of a healthy India.

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As long as we are able to look at this provision as a means to meet the end of a
healthy India and not an end in itself to fulfill numbers, the step will be beneficial to
Indians.

Topic: India and its neighborhood- relations.


Q) At the heart of the ongoing political crisis in Bangladesh are the unsettled questions
from Bangladeshs violent birth in 1971. Critically comment. (200 Words)

The Hindu
Ans:
For the last two years Bangladesh has evidenced unflinching conflict due to
inconsistency between the two major political parties.
A bird's eye view
---------------After 1947 ; the economic and political supremacy of the west pakistan led east
Pakistan to uprising and it initiated separation of east Pakistan as " Bangladesh"
from west Pakistan. Ironically; progenitors of Awami league and Bangladesh
National Party ( BNP) both activly participated in liberation of Bangladesh.
current situation
---------------The BNP is claiming fresh election accusing Awami League election manipulated. It
has led to violent conflict between the two parties.
Reasons of conflict
----------------1/ Awami league removed the part of caretaker government of constitution through
constitution amendment. The opposition party is claiming to reintroduce the part
under which fresh election can be conducted.
2/The Awami league government has taken stern action to punish war criminals. It
has responded to the claim of shahbag movement and civil society. The opposition
vehemently criticizes this secular policy.
The dilemma
----------Though both the political parties derives its root from civil war and supported
creation of Bangladesh but the ideological differences between them have blurred
the very purpose of their origin in 1971.

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The awami league wants to retain bangla identity with bangla as national language
while BNP wants to retain islamic identity. Thus two streams of nationalism are the
real cause of current conflict. The current government takes strong action against
islamic terrorist while opposition is said to support the jihadist. Thus; the very
purpose of liberating east Pakistan from muslim dominated west Pakistan becomes
vague due to ideological differences.
Solution
-------Keeping aside the internal conflict between two parties; the international bodies and
neighboring countries can take initiative to support a government with secular base
and humanitarian ideology. The matter of terrorism is a prime concern here.
Another solution is arising of new leaders instead of two old leaders with conflicting
views. Dialogue between the two parties can solve the current dilemma.
Any careless step might revert Bangladesh to military rule as happened earlier. So ; a
speedy process is necessary to solve the ongoing conflict.

Topic: India and its neighborhood- relations.


Q) Critically analyse the changing role of Saudi Arabia in the Middle East post Arab
Spring, post the surge of the Islamic State and dipping crude oil prices across the globe.
Also examine how has Indias engagement with Saudi Arabia has evolved in past few
years post above mentioned developments. (200 Words)

The Indian Express


Ans:
Saudi Arabia was the most oil rich nation in the world, currently overtaken by the
US. The low cost of producing oil, huge oil reserves, holy places like Mecca and
Medina made Saudi Arabia a crucial player in geopolitics and the world economy.

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Current role of Saudi Arabia:
1. Saudi Arabia has very good relations with the west. It is a sunni majority country
which does not have amicable relations with shia majority Iran. It has supported
sunni militants in Iraq and Syria to confront Iran. But with the birth of Islamic State,
Saudi Arabia has reconsidered its policy and limiting regional rivalry to thaw
Islamic State.
2. Arab Spring was a cause of concern to the monarchical country. So, it supported
the minority govt. in Bahrain, and supported the army in Egypt, movements in
Turkey and qatar to suppress the Muslim Brotherhood.
3. The lowering price of oil, along with increased production and the discovery of
shale gas caused concern to Saudi Arabia. So, it increased production to further drop
oil prices. This makes shale gas ventures nonviable because of their higher cost of
production, and also disturbs its rivals like Russia and Iran, who solely depend on
oil revenues for their international ventures.
India's engagement with Saudi Arabia has been lacking the thrust it needs. India
used to import more oil from Iran than Saudi, but the recent turbulence caused it to
diversity its sources.
With the clout Saudi Arabia commands, it is imperative that India emphasize more
towards this Middle East country.

General Studies 2

Topic: Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolution


Q) Examine what historical forces shaped the vision of the Indian Constitution. (200
Words)

NCERT
Ans:

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Forces that shaped vision of constitution
1) Positive secularism - to root out religious dogmas, like caste system,
untouchability, etc
2) Fraternity - bloody battle between hindu muslims
3) Equality - due to caste and class differences rooted in religious systems both
hindu and muslims
4) Fundamental rights - oppressive nature of colonial system
5) Sovereignty - Historic subduction by British rule
6) Democracy - to provide equal representation to all including women to alleviate
and bring social and political equity and rule by people
7) Republic - to end the rule by a monarch in Princely states which was mostly self
aggrandising
8) Socialist - to bring about change in life of the farmers who were historically
exploited by zamindars and colonial masters
9) Justice and Rule of law - to counter the historic highhandedness of the upper class
10) Parliamentary structure - familiarity with this system due to intricate
understanding of British Parliamentary system and its corporation in Govt of India
Act 1935
11) Federal Structure with centralising power - to give autonomy to states while at
the same time preventing disintegration after bitter partition of Pakistan
Thus Indian constitution was influenced by historic developments which helped the
country maintain its unity and integrity and promoted sense of nationalism and
helped India survive and thrive.

Topic: Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and
challenges pertaining to the federal structure
Q) During the framing of Indian constitution, what were the arguments in favour of
greater power to the provinces? Examine. (150 Words)

NCERT
Ans:
India was a large country in terms of area as well as population thus it was almost
impossible to rule the country from Delhi. The members who advocated the
decentralization of power has the following arguments:
1. Each region will have separate problems, regional disparities, socio-economic
conditions and different methods to solve them.
2. As states were defined as not just police states, thus autonomous financial fist is a
must to fulfil the dream of welfare state.

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3. Provinces must be vested with powers along with responsibilities, thus some
autonomy was necessary.
4. Indian states must not be an appended unit of Centre but should be federation
that works in cooperation with Centre towards development.
5. Centre must retain with itself the power that are of grave importance and
necessary for countrys security, sovereignty and unity but residual power should be
with states.
So in other words they were against one-size-fit-all policy, where Center is the
boss and state are at its discretionary subject.

Topic: Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability


Q) India must have a system that introduces accountability and allows the public to
evaluate the claims of good governance on the basis of evidence and not mere rhetoric.
Examine the possibility, need and challenges in introducing an index similar to human
development index (HDI) to measure governance in India.(200 Words)

Business Standard
Ans:
Like human development, good governance is also a multi dimensional
phenomenon incorporating accountability, transparency, participation, devolution,
efficiency etc. so it is difficult to encapsulate all dimensions in a single index. but the
recent discussions on minimum government maximum governance, good
governance day, PPPP etc makes it necessary to have a deeper insight in to
possibility, need and challenges to measure governance in India.
Possibility to measure governance:* we already have transparency index, corruption index, ease of doing business
index etc covering different dimensions of governance. Thus we can also have a
governance index.
* If HDI can measure such a broad multi dimensional phenomenon than governance
can also be measured.
Need to measure governance:* Good governance concept came in 90s but till now it is very difficult to define and
measure the domain of GG.

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* all indexes trying to cover this and UN's governance index have failed to give any
positive result.
* we are having different discussions like kerala vs bihar governance model,
devolution of powers to PRI etc. governance index can help in these discussions.
Challenges to measure governance:* It is a multi dimensional phenomenon.
* we have to define whether governance is outcome based or process based.
* extraction of data and information will be difficult due to corruption, red tapism
and official secrets of bureaucratic institutions.
Despite these challenges we cannot neglect the significance of measuring governance
and only having an index will not be a solution to our implementation problems. we
will have to improve in every dimension of governance and use information and
technology to achieve the goals laid by Indian constitution.

Topic: Issues relating to development and management of Social


Sector/Services relating to Health; can be linked to Paper-3 topic
Government Budgeting
Q) Just like separate railway budget, there is a dire need for a separate health budget.
Critically comment. (200 Words)

Business Standard
Ans:
The present government has repeatedly shown concern toward the health of nation
as a whole. Still, just like previous year, there was a cut in health budget now at
1.04% of total budget. This constant cut on health sector to meet the fiscal deficit may
work in short term but as prevention is better then cure in case of health issues, this
cut only puts the problem at bay resulting in adverse long term consequences.
There is already growing situation as the India is declared to have maximum
diarrohea, malairal deaths every year, the diseases that grows with poor living
conditions and lack of timely health facilities.
Hence serving as the evidence of need for a bigger budget allocation which is
constantly reduced and fund used in other areas like fertiliser industry where
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government spent 11$ billion and petroleum, 13.5 billion in 2013-14. These expenses
need to be cut and funds allocated to health health sector/service.
However there is not need to have a separate health budget like railway budget
because its current expenses is 1.04%, 5$ billion which need to be increased by
approx 2% to meet the global standards, i.e, around 15$ billion which can be solved
without making a separate budget department. As 2nd ARC fourth report puts it,
"whenever there is administrative problem in any area, a common step is to add a
new department, however, merely adding the layers of departments is not the
solution and also leads to complexity".

Topic: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on


Indias interests, Indian diaspora.
Q) With suitable examples analyse how the presence of large Indian diaspora and shared
colonial past have been instrumental in forging good relationship between India and
few countries spread across the world. (200 Words)

The Hindu
Ans:
The present ongoing foreign policy is to forge good relations with other countries as
part of government's "fast track" diplomacy. Indian diaspora is 2nd largest in world
and is financially and politically powerful. They are ambassadors of Indian culture &
have a great faith in ethnic people.
Sanctions imposed on India after 1998 nuclear tests, Indian diasporas role was
instrumental in reconciliation between west and India.
They constituted only 1% of USA population still represents 13% in top
educational institutions. They are extremely influential entities in the US and the UK
even politically, can reap major benefits to India. As helping to give thrust to civil
nuclear cooperation.
Indian PM visited Fiji and installed confidence in PIOs there to support them.
Guyana, sought Indias assistance in setting up a hospital and investments from
Indian companies in the pharmaceutical and construction sectors.
Ties with Mauritius are strong as a majority of the people there are descendents of
past colonial laboures.

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To-day the overseas Indians particularly from developed countries are seen as
potential resources of the country owing to their success and achievements in the
countries of their adoption. India is no longer restricted to the sub-continent, it
straddles the world. New government major policies like Make in India, Urban
Planning, Swachh Bharat Campaign seeking larger inputs & cooperation from the
diaspora.

Topic: Issues relating to development and management of Social


Sector/Services relating to Education
Q) The key problems confronting higher education in India are quality, equity, access
and financing. In the light of many problems being faced by Indias premier educational
and research institutions, critically analyse the statement. (200 Words)

The Hindu
Ans:
India has vision be a super power, complementing it is india's demographic
dividend and motivating past of internationally recognized nalanda,takshshila in
higher education.But today it has been mired with several problems most visibly
1)quality
a)institutional setup- UGC at apex not able to manage properly,besides political
meddling in its structure has lead to sycophancy and cherry pickings.
b)Ad-hoc expansion- not only shortage it has lead to intrusion of poor quality
faculties even in premier institution,besides non accountability of part time recruits
c)Autonomy erosion
d)dilution of standards by faculties to be popular.
e)reverse filtration- brain drain of UG graduates of premier institutions, lack of
fellowship in higher education leading to exclusion of talented one's to industry and
intrusion of mediocre's.
f)poor incentive for talented youngsters to join teaching line,lack infrastructure.
g) petty politics and sycophancy of mediocre's of those in power in power isolates
and harasses individual intellectuals.
2)Education Equity and accessibilitya)highly regional developments of colleges- boom in southern india engineering
colleges ,drought in bihar,north east.
b)social structure- biases and prejudices towards downtrodden and women is still
rampant even in higher education.
c)govt bias towards specific courses and universities leading to neglect of arts and
humanities research.

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3)financial constraintsa)budget allocation to research in india quite meagre besides, much is being
allocated to research laboratories such DRDO,CSIR.
b) un-affordability- private colleges charging heavy fees.
Indian govt as well as students are spending huge chunks of precious currency to
pursue higher education outside in india which hampers indian growth also in the
form of brain drain.Thus in order to amend higher education ecosystem in india an
enhanced debate is must on critical issues among all stakeholders govt
,student,acamedicians,private sector as well as research undertakings..

Topic: India and its neighborhood- relations.


Q) Compare and contrast with suitable examples how some of Indias neighbours across
its western border have become the victims of their own religious and security policies in
recent times. (200 Words)

The Hindu
Ans:
The religious and security policy of different countries has contributed to the
germination of anti social forces from time to time that can be enumerated as
followsPakistan
-------The nexus between ISI and terrorist created by security policy of Pakistan to
maintain strategic importance in neighboring countries like india now turns fatal to
herself.
Iraq
---The prolonged neglect and persecution of civilian sunnis by the government
increased the conflict between shia and shunni as well as arising of ISIS. The helping
in re establishment of ISIS by the government and the release of ISIS prisoners by the
government in consultant with US now itself proves fatal to the government.
Iran
---The government support to lebanon revolutionary group Hezbollah; Palestinian
terrorist group hamas and its own creation Islamic revolutionary guard corps and
frequent nuclear activities now poses threat to herself through nuclear terrorism of
non state factors.
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Saudi arab
-------*-*
The religious policy used by the government to retain power that resemblance of
king to caliphate brings threat to herself on ideological basis that ISIS is also trying to
establish caliphate and wants to occupy mecca and medina in saudi arabia.
Turkey
-----The policy taken by government to curtail the civic rights of the kurds; kurdish
languages; madrassas; culture etc proves fatal to herself inspuring to birth Kurdish
military.
Thus; whether it may be to influence in others territory or for the sake of foreign
policy or for specifying in its own religious base; government of different countries
have inspired to birth of some revolutionary groups either directly or indirectly.

General Studies 2

Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving


India and/or affecting Indias interests
Q) Critically discuss challenges faced by India and USA in tackling terrorism and
examine agreements signed or arrangements made between the two to tackle the same.
(200 Words)

Business Standard
Ans:
Terrorism, at any part of the world, is more a threat to the race we are becoming as
humans than to any particular nation or community. Although it is often observed
that countries with least development produce the most amount of terrorist
activities, this notion is challenged with the example of U.S.A and India both facing
similar challenges in tackling terrorism as below:
1. Rising Islamic extremism in both countries, especially from Al-Qaeda and related
groups
2. Failing security and monitoring systems to check the online recruitment of the
youth into terrorist organisations like the ISIS
3. Lack of refined technology and experts to deal with the growing threat of Cyber
terrorism, especially from countries like China, Russia, Korea etc
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4. Increasing amount of untraceable illegal funding, by corporates in the U.S. and
political parties in India, that perpetuates terrorism
5. Ethnic minorties, which are not only the easiest subjects of terrorism but also most
vulnerable for admission into terrorist organisations, are abundant in both the
countries
6. Lack of coordination with the neighbouring countries
The agreements and arrangements between the two countries to deal with terrorism
are as following:
1. New framework for defense (2005), renewed in 2014, intensifying the bilateral
defense cooperation.
2. India- US counter terrorism cooperation initiative signed in 2010, to enhance
collaboration on countering terrorism and sharing information.
3. The 2014 FATCA agreement also facilitates sharing of financial information which
will help both countries keep a check on illegal money that can fund terrorism
4. Sharing of technology, especially in the space of cyber crimes
We owe a responsibility to eliminate terrorism from our respective boundaries not
just because they affect our country but feed into the global cycle of terrorism, and
hence a threat to everyone.
Ans2:
The challenges faced by India and USA can be enumerated as follows-Cyber terrorism
--------------Both USA and india might face a great threat due to cyber insecurity. Iran accuse
america of using struxnet against their web and in retaliation iran is also said to be
done the same against america. America is facing the same from Russia and china.
India might face the same with its vulnerable border countries regarding theft of any
intelligence; security or defense informations.
Jihadist
--------The al quaeda; ISIS is posing dangerous security problems to america.
India is also facing the same from nearby bordering countries . The mujahedeen ; IS
are also threatening to the security of india.
Nuclear terrorism
------------*--Both india and USA are very vulnerable due to the theft or domination or
technology transfer of any nuclear matter to the non state factors. Though some
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opines that it is very thin due to its sophisticated technology but both the countries
must prepare for furure protection.
Internal or domestic terrorism
---------------------USA has foiled attempt of many native citizens to perform terrorist acts in
association with international terrorist organisations. With large number of home
grown terrorist groups this problem is much challenging to india at present scenario.
Eco terrorism
---------These groups of persons or organisations perform extreme violence vandalising
properties or killing life whom they consider are harming to environment. India
with a large number of environtalist groups and existence of foreign NGO might
face this problem in future.
Virus as terrorism
---------------Terrorist might infiltrate life threatening virus or diseases to the countries. Anthrax
is very dangerous regarding this. India and USA might face this kind of threat.
Mobilisation
---------The jihadist groups are trying to recruit more persons from these countries through
video in social media. It is a great threat for both the countries.
Smuggling
---------Both the countries faces challenges regarding smuggling; arms trade ; fake money
across their borders which adds fuels to terrorism.
Both india and USA have signed " india USA counter terrorism cooperation
initiative treaty"; " bilateral treaty on mutual legal assistance in criminal matters" to
tackle all kind of terrorism and emanating legal process. They have initiated joint
working group on counter terrorism to begin dialogue process to counter terrorism.
Solution
-------1]. Both the countries might have to conscious in policy matter. USA in dealing with
shia ; shunni matter and india in dealing with vulnerable borders and grooming
place of terrorist in nearby countries.
2]. strong message to nexus of terrorist and government intelligence group through
international forum.
3]. cooperation between indian and American intelligence group.
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Thus, India and USA faces innumerable terrorist challenges.

Topic: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their


structure, mandate.
Q) Examine how will India benefit if the UN Security Council is reformed. (150 Words)

The Hindu
Ans:
India joined UN in 1945. Being the largest democracy and one of the largest constant
contributors of troops to UN peacekeeping missions, India is an apt and a strong
contender for UNSC's permanent membership. India is the only candidate that has
received support from all permanent members and most other nations as well.
By being a permanent member of UNSC, India will benefit in the following ways:
1. We will get power to veto: This will enable India tailor UN policies to its needs.
2. Being largest democracy, our inclusion into UNSC will make UNSC itself more
democratic and inclusive. This may help in making the world a more peaceful place
from which India too will benefit.
3. Many smaller nations go unrepresented on world platforms like UNSC. Smaller
nations like Guyana look up to powerful and friendly nations like India to protect
their interests. Hence by giving a representation to such smaller states, our relations
with such countries will definitely improve.
4. Our strength will get a official recognition.
5. It will enable India exert greater influence on world politics

Ans2:
UNSC an international organisation and one of the most important organ of UN and
decides issues of war and peace in global scenario and has 15 members ( 5
permanent and 10 non permanent members ) .Since 1955 india is struggling to join 5
member league for its extremely deserved qualifications like population of 1.2
billion, Third largest country in terms of PPP , largest democracy , Major contributor
to peace keeping mission . It is because of veto power of permanent countries still
india lacks its entry.
Benefits to india if it joins USSC permanent member :
1) India secures veto vote and will allow india to tailor UN policies to its need and
thus enable india to exert greater influence on world politics .
2) India can concentrate more on reducing poverty , child mortality and improve
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literacy rate .
3) Border disputes , maritime issues may reduced to some extent as compared to
present situation .
4) Bilateral relations with nations work better and act in swift way .
5) Problems of cyber security , terrorism , tax evasions , piracy dealt better
6) Most of global nations look india as less advanced and backward country these
perceptions will be reduced to some extent .
Permanent countries ( hero's of WW 2) are more advanced nations than india ,
though india with largest democracy , fastest developing and oldest civilised nation ,
India need a stabilised effort than those countries to reach its threshold . Though
India benefits, UNSC too benefits if India joins its bid

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